Family: Cupressaceae

Introduction

Cupressus lusitanica, also known as the Mexican cypress or Portuguese cypress, is a large tree native to the highlands of Mexico and Central America. It could be a good choice for both a Christmas tree and a windbreak in Hawaii, but there are specific considerations for each purpose, especially given Hawaii’s unique climate.

C. lusitanica thrives in cooler climates, particularly at higher elevations. However, the State Tree Nursery reports that it grows well below 3,000 feet as long as it receives enough water. Mexican cypress prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Use plenty of black cinder to increase drainage to prevent root rot. Water regularly, but avoid over-watering.

Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are typically grown in rows with enough space to allow them to develop their full height and shape. Plant your cypress at least 6-8 feet apart, depending on the variety and desired size. To create a well-shaped Christmas tree, you will need to start pruning early. Focus on creating a single central leader with a symmetrical, conical shape. Begin by removing any lower branches to create the characteristic “tree” shape. This will need to be done regularly to ensure the tree stays compact and dense. Mexican Cyprus can grow relatively quickly, around 1–2 feet per year, under ideal conditions. Given this growth rate, it can take 6–8 years to reach a typical Christmas tree height (6–8 feet), but this depends on how well it’s cared for.

Windbreak

Using C. lusitanica as a windbreak can also work well, especially in areas where you need protection from strong trade winds or storms. The dense foliage of the cypress forms an excellent barrier against wind, and the tree’s upright, conical shape is perfect for creating a natural fence. Mexican cypress is a hardy tree that can tolerate strong winds once established, though younger trees may be more vulnerable. For a windbreak, it’s important to plant them in rows, spaced closely together, to form a solid barrier.

Choose a site where wind protection is needed. You can plant the trees in a staggered formation to ensure a thick windbreak, especially if you’re trying to block coastal winds or winds from a specific direction. Plant trees about 6-8 feet apart in rows, and consider multiple rows if you want extra protection. A double row (with staggered plants) will be more effective than a single row. For a windbreak, you’ll want the trees to grow tall, at least 15–20 feet, but higher if you’re trying to block stronger winds. C. lusitanica can reach heights of 40-50 feet under ideal conditions, so spacing and pruning are essential to control the tree’s growth and prevent it from becoming too wide. A windbreak can start to take effect within a few years, though for full coverage, it may take 5-7 years or more depending on the size of the trees and the distance you want to cover. 

Plant Uses:

• Bonsai
• Container plant
• Hedge
• Medicinal
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening
• Shade
• Specimen
• Windbreak
• Woodworking

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers